Whitecaps FC do not offer contracts to Bellisomo, Forko, and Thomas

VANCOUVER, BC - Vancouver Whitecaps FC confirmed today that the club will not offer Major League Soccer contracts to defenders Luca Bellisomo and Willis Forko, as well as goalkeeper Simon Thomas.

"We wish to thank Luca, Willis, and Simon for their contributions to the club," said Whitecaps FC head coach Teitur Thordarson. "All three players were very professional during their time here, not only in their efforts on the pitch, but also in their commitments to the community as well. We wish them all the very best for the future."

Bellisomo, 24, leaves Whitecaps FC after three seasons with the club at the North American second division level. Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, the native of Coquitlam, BC, made 37 total appearances during the 2010 campaign for 3,091 minutes of action. He scored two goals and recorded one assist for five points during the season. In total, Bellisomo appeared in 64 matches for 5,066 minutes of action with the 'Caps.

Forko, 28, re-joined Whitecaps FC midway through the 2010 season following a two-and-a-half year spell in Norway. Born in Monrovia, Liberia, the native of Houston, Texas, started all but one of his nine Whitecaps FC appearances for 743 minutes of action. The left fullback had a previous spell with the 'Caps in early 2008 before moving to Norwegian outfit FK Bodø/Glimt.

Thomas, 20, leaves the 'Caps after spending over three years at the club. In the last two seasons, the native of Victoria, BC, served as a back-up goalkeeper with the men's team. Thomas made one substitute appearance during the 2010 campaign.

Whitecaps FC 2011 Major League Soccer season tickets start at a base price of $319, plus applicable tax and a $10 processing fee per order, and more than 60 per cent of seats are available for less than $31 per game. To secure a seat and for additional information about Whitecaps FC MLS season tickets, suites, and loge boxes, call 604.669.9283 or visit whitecapsfc.com.